Nicotera​

Latest page update: 1 March 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The hill town of Nicotera is situated within the Province of Vibo Valentia. It has a population of around 6,000 inhabitants and stands at an elevation of 220 metres above sea level. 

​Places of interest nearby include the towns of Nicotera Marina, Joppolo, Capo Vaticano and Tropea. The recommended accommodation for Nicotera is the Hotel Maremonti.
Related links
Nicotera • Calabria • Historic Hill Town
Nicotera is a historic town located in the province of Vibo Valentia, in the southern region of Calabria. Perched on a hilltop, it overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea, offering sweeping views of the coastline and the nearby Aeolian Islands in the distance. The town is known for its charming medieval character, with narrow, winding streets, stone houses, and significant historical landmarks that reflect its long past.

One of the most notable features of Nicotera is its ancient castle, which stands proudly on the hill, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area. The town is also home to several churches, including the Cathedral of Nicotera, which showcases historical architecture and religious significance. Local traditions and festivals give the town a vibrant cultural atmosphere, while the surrounding countryside is rich in olive groves and vineyards, contributing to the region's agricultural heritage.

Close by, the coastal area of Nicotera Marina offers a peaceful beach experience, with clear waters and sandy shores that attract visitors seeking relaxation by the sea. The larger town of Vibo Valentia is within easy reach, providing more amenities, cultural sites, and historical attractions. The nearby Aspromonte National Park offers extensive natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking, trekking, and discovering Calabria’s mountainous landscapes. Nicotera, with its combination of history, natural beauty, and proximity to the coast, provides a tranquil yet culturally rich destination.​
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Nicotera Vecchia: The historic centre of Nicotera, known as Nicotera Vecchia, is a charming area with narrow cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and beautiful squares. Visitors can explore the town's historical landmarks, including churches, palaces, and fortifications.
  • Santa Maria Maggiore Cathedral: The main religious site in Nicotera is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, a beautiful church with a mix of architectural styles and richly decorated interiors.
  • Scenic Views: Nicotera offers panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding countryside from its elevated position. The town's scenic vistas make it a great spot for photography and relaxation.
  • Local Cuisine: Nicotera offers visitors a chance to savor traditional Calabrian cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients such as olive oil, cheese, and regional wines.
  • Proximity to Other Attractions: Nicotera's location in Calabria makes it a convenient base for exploring other nearby towns and attractions, including the beautiful coastal town of Tropea and the ancient ruins of Locri Epizephiri.
  • Festivals and Events: Nicotera hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating local traditions and cultural heritage. The "Festa della Madonna di Capocolonna," held in August, is one of the most significant, featuring religious processions and traditional festivities.
Comune di Nicotera
Province: Vibo Valentia

Region: Calabria

Population: 6,557​ (in 2024 - source)

​​​Size: 32 km²

​​Elevation: 220 metres

​Close by: Nicotera Marina, Joppolo, Capo Vaticano, Tropea

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Maremonti (7 km)

Nicotera​  ​Gallery

    Private  Transfer  Request

    WE OFFER PRIVATE TRANSFERS ACROSS THE WHOLE OF ITALY!
    To request the price and availability of any transfer route in Italy please use the form below or contact us via the [email protected] mailbox. Make sure you've included details such as the name of the hotel, name of the town/city or which airport/train station where relevant. Our English booking team will get back to you ASAP to assist with your enquiry.

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via  my Facebook and Instagram pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.